C3 glomerulopathy is a kidney disease that occurs as a result of inflammation and damage to the kidney glomeruli. This disease is associated with the C3 protein, which normally functions to protect the body’s immune system. C3 glomerulopathy is found in two main subtypes:
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Associated with C3 Glomerulopathy: In this subtype, the immune system damages the glomeruli in the kidneys due to genetic mutations related to the C3 protein.
Isolated C3 Glomerulopathy: In this subtype, patients only have C3 accumulation and inflammation in the kidney glomeruli.
Diagnosis of C3 glomerulopathy can be made through methods such as kidney biopsy and laboratory tests. Treatment options can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the patient’s condition. Medications, immunosuppressive therapy, or treatments like plasmapheresis may be used. C3 glomerulopathy is a rare kidney disease and carries the risk of kidney damage and kidney failure if left untreated. Therefore, it is important for individuals experiencing symptoms or suspecting this disease to consult a healthcare professional.
Causes of C3 Glomerulopathy
The causes of C3 glomerulopathy are based on immune system and genetic factors:
Genetic Mutations: C3 glomerulopathy is often associated with genetic factors.
Immune System Abnormalities: Abnormalities or disorders in the immune system can increase the risk of C3 glomerulopathy.
Family History: Family history can affect the risk of C3 glomerulopathy.
Infections: Some infections can affect the immune system response and increase the risk of C3 glomerulopathy.
Symptoms of C3 Glomerulopathy
The symptoms of C3 glomerulopathy can manifest due to kidney damage and impaired kidney function:
- blood in urine
- decrease or increase in urine volume
- difficulty urinating
- fatigue and weakness
- hypertension
- edema
- increase in proteinuria
- abdominal pain
Diagnosis of C3 Glomerulopathy
Diagnosis of C3 glomerulopathy is made using a series of clinical and laboratory methods:
Clinical Examination: Initially, a healthcare professional will evaluate the patient’s symptoms and medical history.
Blood Tests: Blood tests are used to evaluate kidney function and immune system activity.
Urinalysis: Urinalysis is performed to determine the presence of protein, blood, or other abnormal components in the urine.
Kidney Biopsy: Kidney biopsy is the gold standard diagnostic method for C3 glomerulopathy.
Genetic Tests: Genetic tests can be used to search for specific mutations.
Treatment of C3 Glomerulopathy
Treatment of C3 glomerulopathy can vary depending on the patient’s symptoms, disease severity, and underlying causes:
Drug Therapy: Patients with C3 glomerulopathy are often prescribed immunosuppressive drugs.
Plasmapheresis: In some cases, a procedure called plasmapheresis may be used.
Blood Pressure Control: Controlling blood pressure can help preserve kidney function.
Urinary Protein Control: Proteinuria should be controlled and monitored to preserve kidney function.
Kidney Monitoring: Patients with C3 glomerulopathy should be regularly monitored by a kidney specialist.
Genetic Counseling: It is important for patients and their families to receive genetic counseling and undergo genetic testing if necessary.
Management of C3 Glomerulopathy
The management of C3 glomerulopathy aims to control disease progression, alleviate symptoms, and preserve kidney health:
Regular Follow-up: Individuals diagnosed with C3 glomerulopathy should be regularly monitored by a kidney specialist or nephrologist.
Drug Therapy: Many C3 glomerulopathy patients take immunosuppressive drugs.
Blood Pressure Control: Controlling blood pressure can help preserve kidney function.
Urinary Protein Control: Proteinuria should be controlled and monitored to preserve kidney function.
Diet and Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is important for preserving kidney health.
Genetic Counseling: It is important for patients and their families to receive genetic counseling and undergo genetic testing if necessary.